Little One

Scarlett,

You're getting so big! 2 pounds and 13.8 ounces. It took you 7 weeks, but you gained a pound! You have the cutest little pink birth mark on your head. You're doing so well, your breathing issues are almost minimal. A desat here and there maybe a brady every once in a while. Nothing like you were having. Every new nurse that works with you comments on how feisty you are. You let them know when you're mad, and Mommy couldn't be prouder.

Because that feistyness is what will get you through this journey. That feistyness is what will allow you to continue through this world in one piece.

The world is a beautiful place my love. I've only been able so see one small corner of it, but that little piece is my piece of heaven. Davis Lane  is the most beautiful place on the earth. I love to watch the ripples in the pond, the pine trees swaying in the breeze. See the birds and squirrels playing, watch the flowers bloom. I love to take walks with the red clay under my feet. One day you too will play there little bit, and I hope you appreciate it as much as I do. That's where daddy will probably teach you how to fish, you may even learn how to drive there. But what you will learn is that there is always a place to go when you need life to slow down, when you just need a moment to breathe, or just a moment alone with God. You can always find God there.

The world can be ugly though little one. People will hurt you. How you deal with that hurt says everything about the content of your character. Be generous with your forgiveness. Although its hard, try not to say things and do things out of anger, when you do so you only add to the ugliness of the world. I so want for you to be beautiful in this ugly world. So many times we hear stories of innocents being harmed, say a prayer for them. We never will be able to make up for all the ugliness, but we can add beauty to our small little corner. Smile at those you pass, smile at those who hurt you. If you can be that person, the one who never harbors hate in your heart, it will do you more good than you will ever realize.

But don't let people run over you. Always stand up for yourself and demand respect. Even if its me or daddy you're having to demand respect from, that is where you start. I promise to always respect you and honor the choices you make for your life. I plan to let you make decisions for yourself early on, so long as they don't hurt you, and if they do, best believe I will step in. I want to prepare you for this world little one. I can only protect you from it for so long. I think you're better off if I prepare you for it. And I hope when you read these letters, you can look back and see that I taught you these things, and you took them to heart and used them to become the person you are now.

Be humble little one. Always know that the things you're blessed with were given to you. If it weren't for our Father God, you wouldn't have those things. If the car you have is nicer than your friends, take turns driving. If your clothes are nicer than hers, share, or ask if she wants to trade. If you see a puppy or kitty on the side of the road, bring it home, if we don't have too many we'll keep it, if we do, we'll find it a home. Always be appreciative of what you have, and always share when you can.

Try new things little one. I tried octopus once, and it wasn't half bad, I wouldn't order it for myself, but it wasn't terrible. Every chance you get try something new, broaden your horizons, but don't forget your favorites, we haven't forgotten you.

I'm not always going to be perfect and neither are you. But together we share a perfect love little one. I promise I will always be here when you need me. I may get frustrated, I may yell, but never for a single moment doubt my love for you. You are my angel, my very own superhero. You saved me when I didn't even know I needed saving. I am forever grateful you came into my life.